Description
About the Role
We are seeking an innovative and solution-oriented Labour Relations Manager to join our EMEA team. This role will focus primarily on Germany and Austria, where you will build strong, constructive relationships with local Works Councils and help shape the future of labour relations practices.
You will play a key role in ensuring compliance and collaboration, while also introducing creativity, process discipline, and technology-driven improvements. By fostering trust, embracing change, and driving continuous improvement, you will set new standards for how Labour Relations contributes to both employee and business success.
Responsibilities
Works Council Relationship Management
Act as the primary contact for Works Councils in Germany (Berlin, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Jena, Mannheim, Munich) and Austria.
Build strong, trust-based partnerships through open dialogue, proactive engagement, and consistent follow-through.
Ensure structured, well-prepared, and efficient meeting processes that inspire confidence in company governance.
Agreements & Consultation Processes
Lead or co-lead negotiations on selected Works Agreements (e.g., inclusion, data processing, organisational change).
Support senior colleagues in shaping proposals that balance compliance, employee interests, and business goals.
Apply creativity and a solution-driven mindset to resolve complex issues constructively.
Innovation & Process Excellence
Identify and implement opportunities to optimise Works Council processes through technology, digital tools, and automation.
Drive process rigour by ensuring documentation, governance, and reporting are clear, accurate, and efficient.
Champion continuous improvement by rethinking established practices and introducing fresh, modern approaches.
Regional Projects & EMEA Collaboration
Represent German and Austrian Works Council perspectives in regional HR and organisational projects.
Collaborate with global and regional colleagues to ensure alignment and share best practices.
Contribute to shaping consistent, forward-looking labour relations practices across EMEA.
Training, Awareness & Culture
Provide training and guidance to managers to help them navigate Works Council processes with confidence.
Promote awareness of the strategic value of Labour Relations in driving employee engagement and business success.
Foster a culture of collaboration, transparency, and innovation in all employee relations activities.
Qualifications
Fluency in German and English (both written and spoken) is required.
5–8 years of experience in labour relations, employee relations, HR, or employment law.
Proven experience working with Works Councils in Germany; experience with Austrian Works Councils is an advantage.
Deep understanding of Works Councils’ positions, motivations, and perspectives.
Strong negotiation and problem-solving skills with the ability to deliver creative, win-win solutions.
Confident in leveraging technology to improve processes, workflows, and reporting.
Rigorous in managing processes and governance, with excellent attention to detail and compliance.
Ability to thrive in a complex matrix environment, with an aptitude for collaborating and influencing at all levels.
Proactive, energetic, and passionate about setting new standards in labour relations practices.
